Journal of the Iron County Mission Continued

Utah Historical Quarterly

Vol. XX, 1952, No. 3

JOURNAL OF THE IRON COUNTY MISSION JOHN D. LEE, CLERK

December 10, 1850—March 1,1851* (continued)

EDITED BY GUSTIVE O. LARSON

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 16

Wed. Jan. 1st 1851 Morning clear Thermomenter stood at above at 1/2 past 6 Capt. O. B. Adams was sent as a committee to explore the country & learn the prospect for feed & camping facilities at the next creek 3 ms distance ahead, returned about 8 reported plenty of water & Saluratus Grass but little or no wood The camp was called to gather & a vote taken by Pres G. A. Smith—whether the camp was to role on to the next creek today & encamp there till the morrow or remain here today voted not to move till the morrow. Pres G. A. Smith then said that a guard should be around the cattle through the day as well as the night a request was made by some of the camp for the liberty of having a little dance, it being New Years the Pres replied that he would not object provided the Bishops would manage the affair & have it conducted with a single eye to the honor of their calling as Saints of God; through the day (which was fine) several lame cattle were shod—J. D. Lee had one of his cows shod the remainder of the day (or nearly so) he (J D Lee) spent reading the Poor Cousins in Pres G A Smiths waggon, while their families were preparing a New Years Dinner which they (the 2 families) partook togather in Pres G. A. Smith's Family House or waggon, it was reported that some Indian camp were but a short distance down the creek, where upon, Capt. Jas A. Little & some 6 of his men were sent with the Interpreter—to confer with them should they be found & tell them our object & that we were their friends 6 that they must not disturb our cattle or Horses or we will use them up, but should they wish to trade their children or other articles for clothing or provisions to come to our encampment, the co refered too after a diligent search returned & reported no Indians. About early candle light, the Dance commenced & about 7 Pres G A Smith & J. D. Lee (general clerk) walked to where the youngsters were amusing themselves in the Dance which was in the open air on the ground in the caral—& looked at them enjoying themselves for a few moments Saw all was right, then returned to his waggon, a few minets after, Jos Horn (pilot) & some 2 other persons were sent to wait on his Excellency the Pres & Lady & his clerk J D Lee & Ladies to the dance. The Pres Lady being some what fatigued from exercise declined attending—the Pres himself spent a few moments more at the circle, but did not participate in the dance. J. D. Lee & Lady attended, all was conducted in good order which produced a mild & pleasant Spirit, at 10 the Watchman cried all is well in camp, the Bishop, Presiding (Tarlton Lewis) called the dance to order & said for the benefit & health of the camp the recreation had better be brought to a close When it was dismissed by Elder J D Lee with a Benediction, each one sought their resting places.

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 17

Thurs. Jan 2nd 1851 Meadow Creek Mild atmosphere Heavy Ther. 28, Deg, above Zero about 8 1/2 morning the Mission resumed its travel & at the distance of 1 1/2 ms brought us to a grass or grazing country which in length is as far as the Eye can extend East & West, & about 3 ms in width this portion of country is free from Sage Brush or any other growth excepting grass Bull Rush Flag & small willow on the stream which is about 3 ms distance in the Prairie & from the make of the country, one must conclude that this stream is a branch of Corn Creek which is 2 ms ahead about 1/2 the land in this pretty prairie plane is very deeply tinctured with Salaratus, though there is some Excellent rich spots of Land occasionally through this plain, Stream 13 feet wide 2 feet deep 2 ms further brought the camp to the South side of this handsome range of country where the Mission formed a carall on the South side of the Main creek. the face of the country here is almost solidly covered with small willows the banks being low the water over flow & spread over a large tract of country—which is the cause of the young willow growth. This is inevitably the best prospect for a large Settlement that we have discovered on the [trip] since leaving the Settlements. This stream upon examination is found to be sufficiently large for Mill purposes and Machinery of any kind—5 will Erigate a large body of land. The soil on this creek is hard to be surpassed. The camp arrived here about 12 noon which afforded a 1/2 day's time at least for Exploring which was cheerfully improved by many in camp J. D. Lee was the first that reported the discovery of aggroculture on this creek brought a corn as an evidence of the fact. | Said that about 2 acres of land was fenced with willow poles sticking them in the ground at the distance of about 3 feet apart, & with bark tied willow poles horrizontally across them & in those little gardens or patches corn wheat & Beans had been cultivated Brought to maturity & harvested this present season (that is now past) & from the appearance of stocks cobs & stubble the '. crops were of a Rich strong growth—which is evidence sufficient that Mormons can raise grain & do well here (or rather) question is if indians can raise such grain—what will Mormons do. Soon after Capt Call, Cherry & Newman returned Specimens of the same & was highly pleased with what they had discovered on the North Side of this Stream near the field refered too, were signs of an heavy Encampment of Indians—from appearance had been encamped during harvest time & had left some time in Autumn— from the no of Wickeups it was supposed that there must have been near 500 Indians—Now comes the report of Peter Shirts who it was said assended to the Top of high peak (of the mountain) & viewed the land Scape over discovered in a Western direction a large lake which he supposed to be about 75 ms long & beyond it seemed to an opening between two Mountains, led the Eye into another valley the extent of which was lost the distance being too great to survey with naked eye—he also discovered a large body of Ceder Timber on a gently elevated Hill which gradually sloped down into the valley which he supposed was 3 ms in width & from 5 to 15 in length he also reported an outlet from the Lake running south The country in this region bore the resemblance of good Farming Lands—next we find him down from the peak in the kanyon of Corn Creek which was the name given to this creek after the discovery Made (Farming) Here he reports of finding ceder trees that would make 2 rail cuts to 1 tree or 20 feet long—straight & handsome & considerable Oak & some Maple & above all Iron ore of the best quality & thinks silver ore also the stream he says is abundantly capable of propelling Mills & Machineries & that the Kanyon will be easy of access, this evening the Pres advised the Horses to be guarded in the carall for said he when you think you are most safe then is the time of danger in an Indian country J. D. Lee in the Evening reading a book titled the Poor Cousins in Pres G. A. Smith waggon—abundance of fire wood from this point from the distance of 5 to 10 ms level road

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 18 Corn Creek

Frid Jan. 3rd 1851 Cloudy heavy atmosphere cold Ther. 12 D. above heavy Frost on the grass & herbs all day the camp this morning made an early start all things safe, the Horse Teams & Capt John Bernard with his 10 who had equalized their loads according to the strength of their teams were permitted to role on to watter as soon as they thought proper, the remainder of the camp followed on the snow here is not to acceed 3 inches in depth at the distance of about 5 ms brought the co by a smawl Mountain on the left which plainly indicated from the large mass of huge rocks & broken fragments that lay scattered in every direction—that the convulsive groans of nature had tested the firmness of it deep laid foundation upon examination the whole mountain had been doubtless subjected to the action of Fire; there being the appearance among the mass of burnt Lava & Pouris stone & even the large stone that remained partly whole appeared as though at some period of time that a welding heat had been taken upon them leaving them the colour of Rich Iron ore — frequently through the day on the left such rocks would appear but at no great distance could the passing object be discovered on account of the immense heavy Fog which filled the valley & the sun its self was not to be seen till near its sitting, about 4 P. M. brought us to the foot of a Mountain shrubed over with ceders—here we commenced crossing over smawl spurs of this mountain and ascended some pretty steep hills, till at the distance of one mile further we found the camp in the mouth of a kanyon, that about 1/2 the co the remainder having ascended the kanyon and encamped in a smawl valley beyond, about 5 ms distance ahead—the remainder of the co were compeled to stop from the fact that their teams were already exhausted & could go no further. Some little time after this co had stoped for the night the pilot sent a messenger back, to inform the rear that the horse teams that were ahead had taken the wrong rd he feared, & where it lead he had no idea—large mountains appeared before them—and the result of taking this road with all in the future—9 deg above zero

Iron County Mission Encampment No 19

Bakers Pass Sat Jan. 4th 1851 Morning clear, cold thermometer at zero.—This morning early Capt S. Baker was delegated to look out a new pass, returned about 9 o clock and reported a pass through the mountains about 1/2 mile to the right of the present encampment, which led directly into the little Basin where the forward company were encamped, the pass is without a single hill to cross, on hearing this report Pres G A Smith ordered the camp to role on, at the distance of 1/2 mile the first 10 by advice of the Pres halted on a splendid spot of grass and let the teams bait about one hour, during which time Capt Love arrived. He having returned in search of a cross cut saw which had been lost from his waggon the evening before His co had gone on. The Pres thought it best not to move on till he overtook the camp—at the distance of about 5 ms we found ourselves on the ground (in the basin aluded too) where the forward camp had been this morning the snow this pass and basin is about 10 inches, this basin is about five miles in circumference no water emptying into it. The road passes directly through the center of this Basin and ascends another pass or kanyon to the S. E. & at the distance of about 3 ms or less we reached the summit at one place in ascending this kanyon some of the waggons were drawn up with ropes & at the distance of 2 ms further, brought us to a creek in a smawl valey resembling a cove feed good abundance of ceder Timber around on the mountains and even down on the bottom, a little after dark the rear of the co roled in camp, here the whole mission encamped togather. Thermometer at 12 noon 50 above zero, at 6, 28 above This evening Pres G. A. Smith gave orders to have the horses put, & guarded in the carall and to notify the mission that should Providence favor there will preaching in the caral on the morrow.

Iron County Mission Encampment No. 20 Cove Creek

Sund. Jany. 5th 1851 Morning cloudy Thermometer stood 28 above orders were given by the Capts for every man to see that their teams are all on hand as the Pres justly remarked to wait till the following morning, to ascertain that all is well in camp would be giving the Indians too much the start. Pres. G. A. Smith around the camp among the brethren animating and encouraging them about 12 noon the Saints assembled in the carall for Public Worship. A short interview with the several Bishops The Pres then addressed the assembly, in substance said Brethren the motives that has prompted us, at this inclement season to undertake this Mission is very different from the view of the world, their motives are selfishness and self aggrandisement and their spirit 6 disposition is to obstruct and pull down to retard the progress of every one but themselves, but with us it is not so. Our sole object is or should be devoted at least, with one united exertion to build up Zion & this I believe is the unanimous feelings this camp. We have as yet had no written camp rules, still I am persuaded Justice and Righteousness is written upon every man's Heart. Law was never intended to govern a wise and upright people, they are above the [law,] righteousness being stamped in their hearts what need have we with a long roten of Bye laws or camp Rules, when every man knows his duty & should any be at a loss to know, let them inquire of these Bishops of men of experience that know more than themselves I have frequently cautioned the Brethren and now repeat this caution never to lay a loaded [gun] up in their waggon without first taking off the cap or empting out the powder from the pan as the case may be & putting in or on the tube a piece or leather or woolen cloth to prevent accidents But notwithstanding when I happen to go to a waggon I once in a while find a gun laid up regardless of the caution that I have so frequently given—But the trouble is some men think their judgement is as good as any other man's & consequently take their own way thinking there surely can be no danger when the cap is removed. I now and again warn you not to tamper with the Lives of one another lest their blood be found in our skirts. Such accidents have happened where the cap was removed, but leaving some of the percussion or composition on the tube it took fire & was near killing or wounding several persons, in the camp that I led from Pottowatomy county & I tremble daily for fear some of you (through some man's neglect) gets wounded. An other caution about guarding my advice is to have a good and sufficient guard placed around the horses in particular, it is better to put the horses in a separate heard 6 take turns at guarding, if each man should stand 2 hours each night would not be verry heavy guarding we have 100 head of horses say worth $75.00 each would be $7500 & unless we do take strict measures the first thing we know when we get up some morning all our horses will be gone My discourse is scattering but those things I wish to say & realizing that it is not verry pleasant to stand in the snow long with wet feet this is the 1st Sabbath that we could lye by since we started. It always so happened that we had to travel for the want of feed or water & this point I was determined to make, so as to rest today & for this reason I instructed the horse teams and Capt Bernard with his company to make this point as soon as they thought propper & that we would follow on as fast as the strength of our poor teams would allow, and should the rear of the co fail to make this point by last evening the front of the co would be sufficiently strong to guard and be safe—but to this arrangement some was not pleased with, but so long as I am the leader of this Mission I shall take the liberty to divide the co where it is for the best. I lay bye on New Year's day when it was contrary to my feelings because quite an honorable portion of this company was in favor of staying, they ruled for they were men of feeling and wanted to favor their weak teams and decided with them—we have had first rate feelings generally still I was accused of causing National feelings by speaking of great battles that had been fought by the Americans I hope never again to excite that kind of National Feelings all governments on earth but one are corrupt & that is the government of God that is my National Interest (Mormonism) closed by the speaker Evening mild Ther 28 above

P. S. Bro. Robert Wiley was unanimously chosen chorister to preside over the singers of Iron County Mission about 7 (evening) the Brethren assembled around camp fire & spent some 2 hours together singing. Pres G. A. Smith with the co.

Iron County Mission Encampment No 20 Cove Creek

Mond. Jan. 6th 1851 Cloudy and mild theremoneter 28 morn noon 32 at 6 evening 28 cattle scatered in every direction. Reported this morning that an ox belonging to Jacob Hoffeins had been killed and mostly ate up by the wolves &—Several cattle lame in camp feet worn out sliping on the snow, one of Pres G. A. 'Smith's oxen quite lame from a snag in one of his feet, which was soon taken out by J. D. Lee and a shoe placed on his foot by Bro. Whiteley & others, about 9 1/2 the camp commenced roling out & at the [distance] of 2 ms the 1st 10 by order of the Pres called a halt and waited for Capt E Whipple who was delayed, one of his oxen was missing, about 12 noon Capt. Whipple found his ox & came & took his place in line, here we crossed a ravine thence through sage and over occasional cobblestone. 3 ms further where we gradually descended a narrow neck of first rate farming land on the west side of this valley which we called Ceder Valley this valley is about 15 miles in length and from 1/2 to 2 miles in bredth and nearly shut down on both sides with scrub ceder in many places the bottom is mostly a sage plain But little grass save what is on the side of the mountains. This neck of land refered to is about 2 ms in length 1/2 mile & near in width at the distance of near 7 miles from cove creek, we found the front of the mission encampment on a small creek about 1 rod wide and 1 foot deep—This creek runs about 2 1/2 ms from the canyon into the valley and sinks in earth near the west side—the soil is of a ridish cast and abundance of cobble stone through the sage —on the east mountains are seen at a distance large bodies of pine and furr timber which from the shape of the mountains and kanyons would be accessible. This being the first pine and fur timber of note, that we have discovered since leaving Salt Creek. Hence this creek took its name (Pine Creek) on the west side of this valley opposite the mouth of this creek kanyon appears to be an opening through the mountains that leads into another valley —But we had no time to explore. At this point a splendid wranch might be established (J. D. Lee) quite unwell. The Pres. through the day in his waggon reading as usual and the camp stops he is around among the brethren inquiring into the welfare of the camp etc.

Iron Co Mission Encapment No 21 Pine Creek

Tues. Jan. 7th 1851 Morning cloudy ther. 28 morning noon 36 eveng 28 About 7 Pres. G. A. Smith at J. D. Lee's waggon enquired of his health and proffered any assistance within reach of his cable Toe —This morning some of the co was deleyed on account of not being able to find all their teams in season one of J D Lee's oxen was not found till about 9 morning the co to which he belonged had all roled on save the Pres and his waggons who did not leave till all was ready to role—from here we traveled about 5 ms through a sage plain scrub ceders and over cobbl stones and crossed 2 smawl ravines which brought us to the head of this valley where we ascended up a smawl kanyon about 1 mile to the top Hill gradual though many were obliged to double teams One mile further we descended down a narrow ravine or kanyon two places very sidling and slippery and with care and skillful driving & managing dangerous to waggons here we turned to the left up another smawl kanyon 1/2 mile to the summit then crossed a deep ravine steep rocky descent, But gradual ascent, then the road winds around the heads of hollows on a divide the distance of 1 1/2 mile there descends a steep hill into a narrow kanyon Road sideling bad traveling—then crosses a deep ravine descent sideling & ascent steep which brought the camp into a little rough broken barren valley covered with a few smawl willows at the head of the same—or nearly so—Splendid feed on the bluffs which at this place were low. The snow generally through day has been from 12 to 26 inches deep & in this valley it is about 12 inches a light skift of the snow through the night of the 6th. at every bad place Pres. G. A. Smith was out & had hold of the waggons assisting to get them over, using every care & precaution to prevent accidents, each ten with their Capt. in the rear assisted one another. Ther. 20 above z. about 8 the horn or bugle was sounded for meeting Bro Wm Mitchell spoke of the first introduction of the Gospel in Liverpool England & concluded with an exhortation on the word of wisdom 24 —followed by the Pres. who illustrated the nature of the word of wisdom to the satisfaction of all.

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 22 Sage Valy

Wed. Jan. 8th 1851 Cloudy Ther. 24 above Z. noon 34 Eveng 20 Snow fell during the night about 2 inches about 7 oclock morning quite a squall of snow & high wind NW which rendered it verry unpleasant blustery and disagreeable, which made it difficult to gather the cattle, as they could scarce be seen more than 100 yards the air being darkened with the clouds of flying snow. This morning J. D. Lee presents Pres G. A. Smith with a ham of pork worth about $4 which was thankfully received as they had but little on hand. About 10 the camp took up the line of march all but Capt. Dame and his ten The Capt. having returned to Pine Creek in search of one of his cows, found his cow at the camp ground, returned and started with his co about 12 noon. From this the road leads south through a narrow vally mostly covered with sage & greasewood distance about 5 ms. There the road then turns down a deep ravine 6 follows the bed about 100 yds then ascends a steep bank which brings the traveler upon other table of higher land the soil is of a green blue clay, the vegetation is shorter plain level rather descends south 3 ms to a smawl stream about 10 feet wide with scattering cottonwood timber along its banks—Sage in abundance but no feed the bottom is narrow this stream we suppose to be a tributary of Beaver Creek, hence called it the North Fork (of Beaver) or Indian Creek. from this the road begins to ascend a hill gradual ascent to the summit about 2 ms. at the foot of this hill 3 Indians came to the rear of Co said (by signs) heap Wickeups East & West, pointing up and down the creek and over onto Beaver Creek here on this summit you have a full view of the surrounding country, of the kanyons that makes into the valley of Beaver, which appear to be well clothed with Pine and Fur timber. The vally is extensive, land good & well adapted for iregation with occasional springs breaking out through the vally immediately on the bottom is aboundance of grass. Some of which is a rich growth. The hill and S [p] urs of the Mountains are covered with large sage greasewood and rabbit bush; with smawl bunch grass growing among the shrubs. The ceder timber commences about 6 ms from the center of the body of farming land & then continues over the spurs & mountains & in the kanyons & inexhaustible quantity easy of access waggons can be drove among the groves almost in any direction—This is also a splendid situation for a heavy settlement & is about 220 Ms from the S. L. City. 3 ms from the summit brings the traveler to Spring Creek, a tributary of Beaver Creek, at which place the Mission Encamped on the North Bank. Tied up the horses and posted strong guards around the cattle; as the Red men were in our vicinity. This creek is about 1 rod wide and 1 foot deep banks high & steep

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 23 Spring Creek

Thurs. Jany. 9th 1851 Clear mild Theremometer 13 above Zero noon 38 eveng 7 This morning the pilot Jos Horn and Capt S. Baker were instructed by the Pres. to examine the situation of the land on the south side of Beaver and if possible to look out a rout to avoid crossing the swamp (a wet piece of land made by springs spreading over the land) About 9 bros Horn and Baker returned & reported favorable. Said by driving about 1/2 mile down the stream and making a bridge or rather filling up a smawl ditch with sage brush through which the water runs, the whole camp can go over dry shod. In the mien time Capt. Anson Call by order of the Pres. engaged as many men with picks and spades on the banks of Spring Creek as could work to an advantage digging down the banks which were very steep. Another portion of the co were collecting the teams about 10 the horse teams commenced crossing and was followed by the 2nd 50. The 1st 50 in the rear today about 3/4 of a mile is the distance between Spring Creek & Pure Creek, another tributary of Beaver. This stream is about 8 feet wide & 1 deep water clear as christale bottom gravely banks hard; but steep bad crossing, less than a 1/4 mile distance brings you to the main creek. This is about 2 rods wide and 2 feet deep at the ford, banks low and hard bottom gravely. Good crossing—Some willow on the banks near the crossing and about 3 ms up the stream appears to be a considerable body of cottonwood timber. South of the crossing from 1/2 to 1 mile in width is the springy wet land before spoken Here the road turns to the right down the stream about 1/2 mile to avoid the swamp, thence south about 1/2 mile further brings you to the outlet of this swamp, a smawl creek about 8 feet wide, banks about 3 feet deep, which we filled up with sage and rabbit brush, the crossing good. The road then commenced winding over uneven ground, covered with greasewood and sage shrub gradual ascent for about 3 miles and at the distance of about 1/2 mile from the spring outlet, this road comes into the old one again & at the distance of about 2 ms the road crosses a hollow ascent & descent gradual, here we have been traveling through ceder and scrub or a dwarf pine about 1/4 of a mile, about 1 1/2 miles further brought the co to the summit of a spur—passed through heavy bodies of dwarf pine and ceder—in fact the whole face of the country is covered with timber for 10 ms at least. There a new pass was discovered to the right by the Pilot (Jos Horn) to avoid crossing this mountain which is high 8 roughf. The road here turns to the right, crosses the head of a kanyon then descends a gradual hill & at the distance of about 1/4 of a mile brought the co into a kanyon up which was a smawl trail made by some of the California Emmigrants 29 probably last Fall. This trail appears to have been made from the Beaver, and it is quite probable a better rout. We traveled up this kanyon about 1 1/2 miles, which brought us to the foot of the main mountain. Snow about 10 inches deep, at which place, the Pres being ahead, called a halt & encamped—(E I) the 50 that [were] his waggons knowing that the Broken remmants of the 2nd 50 were in the rear, & could not possibly cross the mountains this evening. The 2nd 50, such as had strong teams, and the horse teams had already crossed. Feed good on the sides of the mountains & ceder in abundance & snow for water here.

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 24 Horn Pass

Frid. Jan. 10th 1851. Clear Thermometer morng 15 noon 34 eveng 28. About 9. odock the co doubled teams & commenced roling up the mountain promiscously as circumstances required without regard to the organization. This was done to facelitate the opperation, with instructions to fall into line in their respective places, when over the mountain, the ascent of this mountain is steep rocky & on account of snow, slippery and sideling, hard on waggons & teams & about 3/4 of a mile to the summit with a ravine to cross about 1/2 way gradual descent & ascent, in ascending this mountain one of J. D. Lee's waggons by neglect of the driver was near being disrobed of its covering by sliding down against a tree dwarf pine. Philip B Lewis shared the same fate at the place—Pres. G. A. Smith assisted with his own hands in getting up his waggons about 12 noon the rear of the co on top of the mountain here an iron boalt which supports the tonge and hounds of one of Pres Smith's waggons were broken & an other boalt was found & substituted in its place Here Pres. Smith ascended to the top of one of the highest dwarf pine trees at that place & from it had a view of the Little Salt Lake Vally. through the intervening spires of the mountains a head; on the top of this mountain down its sides and in fact as far as the eye could discover heavy bodies of pine and ceder timber appeared—about 1/2 mile distance from the top brought the co to the foot, in a smawl basin covered with timber; descent steep, road crooked winding among the timber some rocks, at this place the foreward part of the co encamped the previous night, but had left before our arrival. Here the 1st 10 (all except one waggon Richard Benson) called a halt to see that all was over the mountain safe when Pres. Smith arrived all the 10's had roled on for Little Salt Lake save the 1st 10 & the broke down teams of 4 other 10's; about 1 pm the remnants of the co renewed their journey; over a continued succession of hills and hollows & over rocks for the distance of about 3 ms especially the latter part of this distance is very rough. Especially the descent into the kanyon that leads into the vally after the road enters this kanyon you cross 3 or 4 ravines none of them bad crossing cobble stone in abundance. The vally on entering it seemed rather forbidding to a farmer especially. Scarce any thing to be seen but sage and greasewood. Mountains moderate height roughf especially to the north & but little timber. At the distance of about 1 1/4 mile We encamped in the northeast end of the valley No wood but dwarf sage. No water but snow—Smawl bunch grass among the sage. About 8 oclock the rear of the company came in. Previous to their arrival Pres. Smith instructed Capt. A. B. Cherry and Bishop Lewis to return until they would meet those in the rear with weak teams to let them know that the camp was but a short distance ahead & encourage them to follow on to camp. During this time J. D. Lee read camp journal to the Pres. Capt Call present. The Pres. then remarked that we were the weak broken fragments of the co and should there be any stragling band of thieving Indians around watching our moves it would be well for us to bring out our fire arms & maneuver according to military discipline & will give them to understand that we are not asleep. This being done under the direction of Capt. Edson Whipple the Brethren were anxious to fire of their guns which when granted only increased their anxiety for the sport and elated their feelings to that pitch that they must fire of the cannon 6 few rounds of smawl arms by platoons and celebrate the day in which we entered the vally. Finally sanctioned by the Pres. John D. Lee Adjutant, was appointed to take command of the performance. The brass piece was loaded and discharged by Bro Bastion. The adjutant formed the co into 6 sections & marched them a few paces in the rear of the cannon which when dicharged was followed by volleys of rifle rounds which produced no smawl alarm to the camps ahead of us as well as the natives of which we will speak of hereafterwards. The first camp was about 6 ms ahead & the main camp about 15 ms & in less than one hour from the time the fireing ceased an express came in full speed of 2 men Zachariah Decker and Peter Lish from the first camp to learn the cause expecting that we had been attacked by the Indians. The cannon was also heard by the 2nd company on head 15 ms & some 20 started for our assistance but was met by an express about 1/2 way informing them of the true state of affairs. All returned home rejoicing in that the alarm was false Pres Smith sent a request by the express that the cos ahead would send back teams and help up those of their co that were not able to come without help. The Pres in first rate spirits and express gratitude to the God of Iseral for his providential care over this mission thus far

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 25 Little Salt Lake Vally Celebration

Sat. Jan 11th 1851 Clear Ther. 28 above noon 38 eveng 24

About 8 the camp resumed their travel & at the distance of about 3 ms met a Bro Town from the camp returning for a cow said that an Indian came to their camp very much alarmed and wanted to make friends said there was a large body of Indians south west & that they were affraid when they heard so many guns & such a big gun last night & at the distance of about 3 ms farther we encamped in the vally at the Buck Horn Springs—this name originated from the fact that a Buck Horn was found in the bottom of the spring about 4 feet deep—water brackish Pres Smith & Capt. Call rode ahead from camp in search of water & feed for the camp & found this spring. The road level through sage & greasewood several rabbits were brought to camp through the day by the boys & several cattle were shod & many more needed shoeing but were forced to do without for the want of shoes. The Pres. shoes & nails were all gone & shoes & nails to put them on were used by one man. The Pres. not only turned out ox shoes but the shoes that he had for his own feet when he saw a French man almost bare foot handed out the last pair of shoes he had, save the boots that were on his feet. The land here is low & strongly tinctured with saleratus, coarse roughf grass and saleratus plenty, day warm. About 6 evening Bro. Jos. Walker & a boy drove 6 yoke of oxen in camp from the cos a head to help up the invaluds. J D Lee gave them their supper and lodging etc.

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 26 Buck Horn Spring.

Sund. Jan. 12th 1851 Clear Ther. 24 noon 40 eveng 26 About 20 minutes to 9 the camp took up the line of march the Pres. thought it best not to stay any longer in that saleratus swamp He in co with Capt. Call, rode on to the main camp which was at Red Creek. the road is mostly level & at the distance of about 4 or 5 ms some mound [s] spring to the left of the road & at the distance of about 6 ms from B Springs the Road runs through a first rate piece of land mostly covered with wire grass heavy coat, this land is low and rich and is made by a creek from the mountains (South East Side) which over flows its banks and spreads over the bottom. Soil redish cast, road muddy, & at the distance of 2 ms further, the road through some sage rich growth 1/4 of a mile then comes to a heavy growth of young willow sprouts The road here turns to the left up the creek about 1/2 mile then crosses at which place the camp was caralled. water soft, mountains red covered with shrub ceder, feed plenty The rear of the co roled into camp about 3 p. m. When Pres. G. A. Smith rode into camp he found that the Brethren were scattered in different directions (not all) Some were hunting others exploring & soon he had an invitation, himself, but he declined by observing that he was too weary. His saddle and bridle was soon borrowed some 8 more were ready to start when he remarked cautiously too should they chance to meet any Bishops or Elders of Israel by the way please remind them to return & keep the Sabbath His gentle caution gave a respit to the horse already saddled as they were soon turned. Pres. Smith in a first good humor to scold & did it up scientificly The Brethren knew they were wrong & therefore felt & appreciated the might of this remark. For many of them had doubtless rushed ahead to examine the country & should it not just please them, to influence a majority to opose the settlement at that point & move for one further south. At 6 the Pres. was at J D Lees waggon talked over the fedings of the camp & said that he wished to see the Capts. together J. D. Lee notified them The Pres stood in the door of his waggon & laid before them his feelings on the subject. Said that without having the first camp law—excepting council & advice this camp has traveled near 260 ms over mountains snow & ice, at this inclemant season, without a fight or even one single quarrel, with only what he had done himself, & that he hoped that the same good spirit that was with them on this mission might remain & he cherished with them always & that the Pres B. Young expected them to settle on Center Creek and the only thing that would induce him to look further for a location, would be the lack of the necessary facilities to answer our present location, & that he was of the opinion that the whole mission had better move on to the next creek & there remain till the necessary explorations could be made & that he would like to see a genteel carall made & the whole mission to be in their proper places as they were organized. & that the Capts should notify their men to that effect. At this encampment a silver watch was found by a Bro Hall supposed to have been lost by the California Emigrants or gold diggers.

Iron Co Mission Encampment No 27 Red Creek

Mond. Jan. 13th 1851. Cloudy Ther. 20 above zero noon 36 eveng 24 About 8 the first 50 roled out 1st 10 in front. Pres G. A. Smith Capts Call, Baker Bishop Lewis Q others started on horseback to explore—at the distance of about 5 ms the camp reached the mouth of the kanyon on center creek at which place the whole mission Encamped at this point considerable snow on the ground & much higher than Red Creek The land is a gradual ascent from Red Creek Has red gravely soil Bunch grass & grease wood is the principal growth & within one mile of the creek quite rocky Center Creek is about one rod wide & 2 feet deep swift rapid current rock bottom & banks—Kanyon oppen for three ms which is the distance that it has been explored—Mountains covered with ceders —about 1 p. m. the mission carralled & about 3 p. m. the explorers returned. Reported abundance of range (bunch grass) & large bodies of bench land but of a good quality & some good bottom [land] also several specimens of antiquity gums & some thing like Epsom Salts or fine saleratus was discovered in the clefts of the rocks. About 4 Pres Smith called the Brethren to gather and reported what discoveries he & others had made & said that he was well satisfied with what he had seen. Still he wanted to explore further & learn the facilities that are wanted to be known. Let some 3 men go on the morrow up this kanyon with Bishop Lewis & examine for timber iron ore coal mill stone grit etc & bring anything that is strange & unknown—a specimen of any curiosity serves to talk about if nothing Let Capt. A. B. Cherry & some 4 or 5 examine the next kanyon ahead & some explore the lake build a good permanent bridge over Center Creek & have the camp cross over & carrall about 1/2 mile below near the liberty pole & let some man cut out a couple of grindstones for public use & let Capt. Jacob Hoffiens have the cannon mounted, then called on Lieut. T. Smith for escort of 15 mounted with 3 days provisions to accompany him on a short exploration of about 25 or 30 ms south to start by 8 oclock tomorrow morning—& concluded by saying that Bishop E H Groves will act as Pres. during his absence & let no persons start out without first reporting themselves to him that he may know who are absent. About 4 pm the Pres. had some conversation with (J. D. Lee clerk) with reference to the explorations & said that he wants him to go along on the morrow.

Middle Creek Tues. Jan. 14th 1851 Iron Co Mission Encampment No 28

Clear wind high south cold Ther. 12 noon 34 Eveng 14 At 10 oclock the exploring co with Pres. Smith left camp being about 20 in No namely G. A. Smith Pres Thomas Smith Lieut. Thos Wheeler interpreter & John D. Lee Clerk rode together in J D Lee's carriage drawn by 4 horses. The Pres J D Lee messed and slept togather. Escort Capt. Almon Fulmer, Lieut Smith Seargeant W. H. Dame E. Brown Capt. A. Call John Dolton Chas Dolton, Leaman Brunson Z Decker G. D. Wood Geo. Wood Lawson Thos Corbit M Ensign, Jos Horn Simon Baker Capt C A Harper Webb & Harmerson was the co that composed the Pres escort. Previous to leaving the Pres instructed the clerk to prepare himself with paper pen & ink to take observations & do such writing as may be necessary The Pres took with him a thermometer, books & candles—& while driving along in the fore part of the day he had the clerk read a few pages in Comstock's Geology the first six ms of the road was through dwarf sage & greasewood plains.

At 11 minutes to 12 noon we reached creek at which place we meet 8 Brethren with pack animals from California for the Salt Lake City Namely Capt. Jefferson Hunt, 42 Levi Fifield John Berey, Jas Brooks, Henry Gipson, Marshall Hunt, John McKay & Byram Fifield They had animals Capt Hunt reported that Isaac Brown had started several days previous to the time that they did he was alone & had 5 animals—they supposed that he was killed by the Indians, they saw where they supposed he met with his fate; there was signs where the horses were drove off. He also said that they saw Indians repeatedly & some were hostile but that they got through safe. From him we learned that Pres Brigham Young was appointed Governor of Eutah Territory, & that nearly all the Brethren that were at the gold mines 44 from the beginning & had made fortunes were all broke & but few of them that can get credit for a meal victuals & have become poor worthless disapated creatures & that roberies & murders are common in California he said that it was reported that Brannan the richest Mormon in the mines was broken. After a short council with them Pres. Smith invited Capt. Hunt to accompany the explorers & that the re- mainder of his co go to our camp & rest themselves & animals a few days for by then we wished to send in a mail & returns of the organization of Iron Co Capt. Hunt & co accepted the invitation got into the carriage & the co proceeded to little Muddy the distance of about 14 ms mostly sage and rabbit bush—about 5 ms N. E. of the Muddy a low range of mountains puts in from the North 5 allmost divides the vally—on the west side of that range several springs brakes out & forms a lake (smawl) around it abundance of good feed & some good farming land. At 20 minutes to 5 PM the co crossed the Muddy & encamped for the night plenty of dry cottonwood & grass for the animals. Banks of this stream low water spreads over the ground abundance of cottonwood timber & ceder in abundance easily of access & near by soil of the best quality Ther 29 degrees above zero

Iron County Exploring Encampment No 1 Little Muddy Creek

Wed. Jan. 15th 1851. Mild clear thermometer 29 deg. above zero The Pres. was up washed and down to brakefast before sunrise. The boys made & kept up a large camp fire of dry cottonwood & around it most of them set & talked over old times till day. Pres. Smith & J. D. Lee retired to the carriage the Pres. offered a prayer they then retired to rest. At 11 oclock but did [not] close their eyes in sleep till near 2 oclock, consulting the interest of this people & the best policy to build up Zion. The Pres. seemed very ernest & much engaged about the present location for this mission, at 5 minets to 8 the co. renewed their mission. Capt Fulmer & some 4 men went & examined the sise & situation of the creek at the mouth of the kanyon at which place the stream was with in its banks. Seargeant Dame & a smawl co took down the stream while the Pres Lieut. Smith Capt. Hunt Thos Wheeler interpreter S John D Lee adjatant. In the carriage Capt. Call and 8 men (escort) drove through the cottonwood vally examining the soil and facilities for farming till at the distance of about 8 ms through sage & rabbit bush brought the co to a smawl ridge of mountains on the west side of the vally. At 17 minets to 11 o clock the horses were turned out at the head of a spring which run west (strong stream) At A minets to 11 Pres. Smith in co with some 10 others

(the remainder left to guard the horses) ascended one of those hills or smawl mountains of Iron Ore distance about 1/2 mile found large quantities of ore Some appeared to have been subjected to the action of heat & was pronounced by some to be dead. However specimens of the ore rock & to be tested by regular and proper process—in this vincity are 3 hills of ore & large amount of free stone suitable for buildings & ceder in great abundance—At 5 minets to 12 noon several horsemen were seen riding towards in full speed about 3 ms off when 1 st discovered. Soon they entered the camp & proved to be Indians of the Eutah tribe; they were 7 in no well clad & riding good horses they rode up & shook hands with the inturpter (4 others) who were well accquainted with them— The leading one was old Peteetneet after whom Peteetneet Creek was named from them we learned that Walker the Hawk of the Mountains was a short distance south about 25 ms near Euinta Vally —they were quite friendly 6 seemed glad that we were settling in Little S L Vally Capt. Hunt & Webb gave them some tobacco which pleased them they then must smoke the pipe of peace at 1 P M the co started on the back trail for camp The Indians rode along some 5 or 6 ms with the co & chated said that they were all of that tribe. On our return home we passed through a First Body of rich land & quite a body of cottonwood timber but the creek from the report of Capt Fulmer & co was not considered sufficient to irriegate that quantity of land that this co. wanted to till about 28 minets to 4 the co encamped on or near the same place they left in the morning. At 5, the Pres. eat supper —after assisting to carry camp wood for the night. At 20 minets to 6 the Pres. G. A. Smith moved that this com. be resolved into caucus meeting & that Capt Alman L Fulmer take the chair & J D Lee act as clerk for the evening carried.

Maj. G. A. Smith addressed the meeting said that it was necessary to organize Iron Co. & report the same by Capt. Hunt who will cary our returns to Head Quarters 6 in order to do this we want to take into consideration the men to fill the difirent county offices & that he should like to hold a regular election. Get up a ticket & vote by ballot. On motion Maj. G. A. Smith Capt. Anson Call Adjutant J. D. Lee Lieut. Thoss Smith & Jos Horn Pilot was appointed a committee to nominate by selection & bring before the public such men as they in their wisdom, might think best qualified to fill the necessary offices of the county Iron. The committee retired for a short time & made the following selection (ss) For representative to the Legislator Captain Jefferson Hunt Edson Whipple & Elisha H. Groves associate Justices Capt. Anson Call & Tarlton Lewis Justices of the Peace, Jas Little Sherrif Wm H Dame County Surveyor John D Lee County Recorder Jas Lewis Clerk county court, Philip B. Lewis Sealer of weights & measures Zachreah B. Decker & Chas Hall Constables. J.D.Lee Chairman of the committee reported the above named persons to the convention On motion the report was accepted & committee discharged by unanimous vote. The supreme judge then appointed Lieut Thos L Smith, Capt. Simon Baker & Capt, John P Bernard Judges of Election which election be ordered to be held at Center Creek on Friday Jan. 17th 1851. At 10 am On motion the convention adjourned without preliminaries. At 15 past 7 the clerk then retired to his carriage to bring up the Journal of the day & minets of the evening The Pres. around the camp fire in turns with the boys relating anecdotes & circumstances connected with his preachings among the gentile priests etc. at 1/2 past 8 the Pres. remarked that last evening he had prayre in the carriage but proposed this evening for all to unite togather in prayre which they did around the camp fire—Elder Anson Call offered the oblation. Ther. at 9 deg above Zero

Iron Co Exploring Company Encampment No 2.

Thurs. Jan. 16th 1851. Cottonwood creek (called Muddy) Morning clear cold air keen Thermometer stood at 8 deg above zero. At 11 minets to 8 morning Capt. Almon L. Fulmer Thos Wheeler interpreter Chas Dolton John Dolton Capt. S. Baker

Capt. A. Call Jas. Lawson Chas A. Harper & Geo Woods were appointed a committee to examine the cottonwood kanyon, still farther than exploration amounted too on yesterday & at 16 minets to 9 the Pres. & the remainder of the explorers started for home (that is the main encampment) For after a fair & thorough examination of the surrounding country the company agreed in one thing (& that was) this creek with all its advantages and facilities the richness of its soil etc was not the home of this mission at the presant. The face of country looked desolate and even the surrounding objects seemed forbidding & fearful threatening of future consequences was plainly depicted on the countenances of every man who felt the weight interest & responsibility resting on them (the building up of Zion) Therefore the spirit bid them return home it the only place that seemed like home to us. The Pres advised the escort to strike for the direction of the encampment in so doing the road would be shortened about 5 ms which would be quite an advantage to our encampment when we established an Iron foundary. We shall go back & forth occasionally as circumstances shall require. At the distance of about 8 ms through sage and rabbit bush heavy growth brought the explorers to large beds of iron ore about middle of the north & south, But it was not of so rich a quality as the ore at the Iron Springs at or near this place Capt. Fulmer & co returned Reported as much water in the cottonwoods as runs in Center Creek which is about 1 rod wide 6 18 inches deep but that the kanyon was narrow & in its present state not accessible with waggons. At 20 minets to 12 noon the explorers arrived at Sumit Creek, day cool cloudy—here Capt. Hunt showed the Pres. a cash which he had made the season before, containing waggon wheels hand saw, planes chisels augers spades chains etc which he said Pres G. A. Smith might have & welcome & all he would ask was, if he (Capt Hunt) should remove to this county, & should need a spade or chain to give him. here the co stopped and watered their animals then steered for the camp & at 21 minets to 4 reach home, took care of our animals & refreshed ourselves. About 6 Pres G. A. Smith called a meeting of the inhabitants of Iron Co & resolved them into a caucus meeting Dr. Wm A. Moss was called to the chair & Jas Lewis clerk of the meeting Pres G A. Smith then addressed the meeting said that on yesterday the inhabitants of Cottonwood Precinct held a convention & appointed a committee to select such persons for county officers as they thought best qualified. The committee then reported the persons for each office which was sanctioned by the convention & the committee discharged—it is now left for this meeting to say whether the present nominations will be supported by the inhabitants of Centre Creek or not On motion from Wm J. Emppy the minets of that convention held by the inhabitants of Cottonwood Precinct was read by the clerk of that meeting (JDLee) & the name of each man & the office for which he was before the public as a candidate was submitted sepperately apart & an expression taken on them, & the nominations accepted. J. D. Lee the candidate for county recorder however arose & beged leave to withdraw his name from the list of nominations—said that should he be elected he would feel himself bound to magnify the office & that would interfere with his present arraingments as he would nessary be absent some length of time, to remove his family to this place Therefore he considered it better to elect some man that is an actual resident of this place & beged leave to nominate James Lewis, on motion his request was granted & the name of Jas Lewis was inserted. Pres Smith then added that it was his mind to have 4 Justices instead of 2 & the same Nom of constables. Then nominated Aaron Farr & John D Lee for the other 2 Justices & said if J D Lee should again object that he would have him put in a constable—next time The nominations were carried Chas Dolton & Samuel A. Wooley for the other 2 constables carried He then nominated Almon L Fulmer supervisor of roads—carried—he then reminded the inhabitants to be on hand at 10 morning 17th to vote. The caucus disolved Sine die by Pres The remainder of the evening was occupied by Pres G. A. Smith in Jos. Horn's waggons counciling & writing. Among the items the Pres proposed having a public dinner for the representative of or from Iron Co & the Brethren that are here from California. All the arrangements necessary he said was for the Capts of 50's & 10's to notify their respective cos. that all who wish to aid in the dinner had the liberty Wind high S. W. Thermometer 8 above Iron Co Mission at Center Creek Friday Jany. 17th 1851. State of Deseret

Cold wind high south Ther. at 8, 16 noon 36 evng 20 Early this morning the Capts notified their respective companies to prepare for a public dinner by 2 o clock p.m. About 8 Pres G. A. Smith employed John Topham to butcher an ox and said to J. D. Lee (who owned one fourth of said beef) loan all of the meat to brethren save one quarter that I want kept for my own use & salt away & keep an account of it, in the mean time the tickets were prepared, pole books, ballot box & so on petitions were drafted many letters written & reports made by the several explorers. Among which or whom Bishop T. Lewis Capt. Newman & others reported that they had examined center creek kanyon the distance of 6 ms. at the distance of about 5 ms the Creek branched into 3 forks timber (bastard white pine) in all saw logs about 4000 or timber to make them & the only trouble was the trees were to large some of them being 5 feet in diameter. Kanyons open, Timber on the bottom where waggons can be drove up among them by making several bridges—feed in abundance up the kanyon the co also reported large quantities of plaster parris —grindstone quarries building stone & some stuff resembling salt and saleratus, but was not pronounced to be either. Capt. A. B. Cherry & co made but little examination in summit creek kanyon from the fact the kanyon was too narrow & rough to admit of ascending it any great distance, therefore the amount of timber in its kanyons are yet to us unknown. Peter Shirts reports considerable timber in Red Creek Kanyon & great quantities of aspen poles on the mountains & Mormon Lignam vitas etc At 10, A. M. Lieut. T. S Smith one of the judges of the election, cried three times in an audible voice, declaring the poles were opened & ready to receive votes. Pres G. A. Smith stepped up & handed in his ticket, & cast the first vote ever given in Iron County, every man in his turn came up & voted & then went about his buisiness, having a plenty to do. At 2 mintes to 3 P. M. at the sound of the trumpet the citizens were assembled around the public dinner each man his lady (that is those that had any) in their respective places organizing as follows the judge at the head the gents on his left according to grade & the ladies on the right facing their pardners. Previous sitting down the Pres. delivered an oration suitable to the circumstances of the citizens of Iron County, in celebrating the day in which Law 6 order was first established in Iron County. At 3 the whole citizens of Iron Co. sat down at once upon the ground around a public dinner which was spread upon Buffalo Robes next to the ground & table cloths clean & white up on which was spread a variety of refreshments of life. Though previous to eating the Pres offered thanks in behalf of the people to the ruler of the universe for the kind & liberal care extended unto them & for liberty of partaking of that rich festival which was bounteously spread before them. They then with one heart all partook helping each other & thus in turn bore the burdens of oneanother & in one view of the subject if you please answered the demand of the laws, for they ate & drank with gladness & singleness of heart & never did I behold the same No. enjoy themselves better, & when they had eaten the Pres drank a Health of Tea (instead of liquor) to the inhabitants of Iron co which was responded by three cheers & followed by Adjutant J. D. Lee Capt. Whipple Wm. Laney & others, & a speech from Capt Hunt, the Iron Co Representative— & closed by benediction from the judge of Iron co Within 20 minets from the time that thanks were returned—the table & contents were removed & a person passing by there would never have mistrusted from what signs was left that any public arraingements had been made for every man was again about his own buisiness as if there had been no public stir. At 6, the poles were closed, every man that wished had voted & nearly all had voted the Iron Ticket. A copy of which is as follows.

IRON TICKET

For Representative - Jeferson Hunt

For Associate Justices - Edson Whipple & Elisha H Groves

For Sheriff - Jas. A. Litte

For Assessor & Collector - Jos Horn

For County Recorder - Jas Lewis

For Supervisor of Roads - Almon L. Fulmer

Sealer of Weights & Measures - Philip B. Lewis

For Justices of the Peace Anson Call Tarlton Lewis Aaron Farr & John D. Lee For Constables Zachriah B. Decker Chas Hall Samuel A. Wooley & Chas Dolton At 20 minets to 7 evening a large portion of mission assembled near the center of the square or carrall at a place leveled of & prepared for a dance having 2 large camp fires & the place of dancing was between them. The Pres. with Capt. Hunt & the remainder of his company were the first that led in the dance & J. D. Lee called the figures. The recreation continued to about 10 evening when about one hour of that time had been spent in singing, the moon shone beautifully & the ground was level & room amply sufficient for 3 sets at a time all was conducted in good order & the best of feelings prevailed, among them. At 10 all retired to their several resting places.

While the dancing was going the Pres & clerks were engaged in writing the Pres wrote & had written 4 petitions to the Legislature of Deseret, one for the controle of the water & timber in center creek for mill purposes & one for the Rail Road to pass by the Iron Springs in Cottonwood vally One for a Road to be located from Black Rock Toolee vally to Beaver Creek, & an other for a Road to be located from Fort Peetneet to the Iron Springs in Cottonwood vally. Jany. 17th 1851. Under the same date, 4 letters to his families one to Jas. Pace F T Peetineet, one to Isaac Furguson Salt Lake vally, one to Archabald Gardner & one to Pres Brigham Young of S. L. City all under date of Jany. 17th 1851.

Iron County Mission at Center Creek Sat Jany. 18th 1851 Clear & cold wind sharp Ther, 28. noon 38. evg 26 This morning early the Capts gave orders to have the teams gathered & remove the camp about 3/4 of amile down the kreek on the opposite side, in the meantime the Pres and clerks were exerting themselves to get the mail & county returns ready to send back to Capt. Hunt & co who were packing up their animals for a start, they having sold several of their weak animals to the Brethren in camp, intended to push through with the remainder in about 10 days. About 9 morning old Peteetneet & about 30 of his band & about 4 horses came to our encampment all friendly then struck up camp in the ceders some 200 yards south of our Encampment. At 10 Capt. Hunt & co Started for the Salt Lake City took with him a mail of about 100 letters, they having been supplied with provisions for their journey by the Pres orders went their way rejoising About 12 noon the Mission formed a carall on the west side of Center Creek, about 3/4 of a mile below, got up fuel to answer over the Sabbath day. Pres Smith Capt Cherry & J D Lee with a spade & pick went about 2 ms south to examine some springs which broke out up the side of the mountain to ascertain if they could be brought to a suitable point to supply the wants of the inhabitants when forted for drinking &c.

On their way J D Lee ascended up into a mountain out of curiosity to learn the properties if any there in contained, while the Pres & capt. Cherry went on to the springs, found a bold running stream but could not easily be taken to a suitable point that would answer the object intended. Here the same anxiety led the Pres & Capt. to further examine the country Each set out alone in different directions neither of the three having arms while near the Pres passed a band of 10 or 15 Indians though he was unoticed by them. Still this gentle caution admonished them always to be ready. Returned about sunset, the Pres & Capt. Cherry brought some 8 head of cattle of strays which belonged to the brethren.

In camp on those mountains were first rate bunch grass.

[Journal to be concluded in October issue.]

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